Air NZ's top 10 picks for Kaitaia

Just north of Kaitaia, New Zealand’s northern most town, an exhilarating, any age and all ability sport is taking hold in the giant Te Paki sand dunes.

Dubbed ‘sand surfing’, the sport involves taking on the sandy monsters – the highest of which can reach 2000 metres – with nothing more than a board and hurtling down at adrenalin rushing speed.

Local expert, Rose Lazarus, who runs a Maori eco-tourism company in the area, says with a few technique tips and safety advice, the sport is within anyone’s reach.

“Sand surfing is a sport for all ages, sizes and fitness levels and everyone gets the same thrill and excitement as well as the buzz of ‘we did it’.”

Beginners tend to ride the boards on their stomachs while the more advanced can tackle the descent standing up. Whatever your stance, you are well advised to keep your mouth closed to avoid a gritty after taste.

The Te Paki sand dunes are just one of the many attractions in the region and Kaitaia is natural base to explore this extraordinarily beautiful and mystical part of New Zealand. Sand surfing aside,

Our top 10 picks include:

90 Mile Beach – this unbroken stretch of white sand is actually closer to 90 kilometres in length (64 miles and 103 kilometres to be exact) and is an inspiring spot to explore independently or on a guided bus tour, quad bike expedition or horse trek

Cape Reinga – see the Tasman Sea meet the Pacific Ocean at the northern tip of New Zealand which is also home to a landmark lighthouse